Have you ever used that phrased with someone else to ‘comfort’ them, typically after you’ve done something to disappoint or hurt them in some fashion? Of course you have! We all have. Countless times to cover countless acts. And it’s been said to us countless times. So do you? Make it up to the other person?
Exactly what is ‘making it up’? Actually there is no way to retrace time so that whatever happened doesn’t. So is it even possible to make it up? Is the phrase a mere band aid used to cover the situation? No and yes. Regardless of how heartfelt the intention, you can’t make it up. What you can do, however, is to either attempt to correct or help the other person deal with whatever happened.
So, should we face the situation and essentially do nothing? Of course not. One cannot help but attempt to rectify an uncomfortable situation. I believe that we are built to try and achieve the best possible outcome for all concerned. And no, that isn’t altruistic. It is also self serving and that isn’t ‘bad’ either.
We all try to create a painless existence. If this also includes the other people that populate your life space, well and good. Life is always a contest of sorts to reach equilibrium whether that be in relationships or one’s personal goals. Equilibrium is sought so ‘things can get done’ – whatever that means for you. It’s neither good or bad, it’s a given.
